Indonesian fans chant coach Shin Tae-yong’s name after failed World Cup qualification

A screenshot of coach Patrick Kluivert on the stands after the 0-1 loss of Indonesia to Iraq in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Oct. 11, 2025

The fans sent a clear message of discontent toward current coach Patrick Kluivert and nostalgia for the South Korean coach who led them to historic success.

Following the final whistle on Saturday, Kluivert sat alone in the technical area with his face buried in the towel.

"He seemed to be in disbelief at his team’s defeat," wrote Indonesian sports outlet Bola. "Kluivert, who was usually cheerful, appeared tense, frowning and on the verge of tears."

Meanwhile, in the stands, Indonesian supporters stayed for longer after the players had left, chanting "Shin Tae-yong! Shin Tae-yong!" in unison as a protest against the Football Association of Indonesia’s (PSSI) decision to replace him with Kluivert.

Shin Tae-yong when he was still Indonesia head coach. Photo by VnExpress/Lam Thoa

Shin, 55, one of South Korea’s most respected coaches, famously led his country to a 2–0 victory over reigning world champions Germany at the 2018 World Cup. After taking charge of Indonesia, he transformed football here, helping the teams reach the Asian Cup knockout stage (2023), the U23 Asian Cup semifinals (2024), and the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers for the first time in history.

However, in January, PSSI president Erick Thohir abruptly dismissed Shin and appointed Dutch football legend Kluivert, citing the need for a stronger connection with Indonesia’s group of naturalized players from the Netherlands. The decision was controversial from the start. Many fans argued that while Kluivert’s reputation as a player was more impressive, his coaching record lacked substance compared to Shin's.

Those doubts intensified after a string of poor results, including a 1–5 loss to Australia, a 0–6 defeat to Japan, and now two straight losses that ended Indonesia’s 2026 World Cup hopes.

 

 

Indonesian fans chant coach Shin Tae-yong’s name after failed World Cup qualification

CĐV Indonesia hô vang tên Shin Tae-yong sau trận thua Iraq

In the match against Iraq, Kluivert made four changes to the lineup, tightening defense but struggling in attack, with only one shot on target from nine attempts. Midfielder Thom Haye broke down in tears after the final whistle, while striker Ole Romeny lay motionless on the pitch.

Tensions escalated when several players and staff confronted referee Ma Ning, resulting in three red cards. The Chinese referee’s late-game decisions, including controversial calls and limited VAR use, fueled outrage among both players and fans.

With two defeats, Indonesia became the first team eliminated in the fourth qualifying round. Saudi Arabia and Iraq will decide Group B’s top spots on Tuesday, with the winner earning a direct World Cup spot and the runner-up heading to the playoffs.